Unique places to visit in Mumbai with family, friends, and couples
Mumbai, the city of dreams
In the hustling and bustling city of Mumbai, also previously known as Bombay, there are a few escape spots that you might not know. These secret places are perfect for gaining calm and peace. We are not talking about the Gateway of India or Marine Drive, but some unique places to visit in Mumbai. Moreover, they take you away from the ever-loud and crowded city.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #1 Banganga
Banganga is known as the mini-Banaras of Mumbai. This India's ancient water tank is in the Malabar Hill Area of the city. The unique spot is in the middle of luxury apartments and temples. Interestingly, it dates back to 1120 AD and holds an impressive mythological significance behind its root.
Mythological Significance of Banganga
Banganga, as said, was the place where Lord Ram prayed to Lord Shiva. He prayed to the Lord to help him find his wife, Sita, who was, unfortunately, kidnapped by the King of Lanka (Sri Lanka), Ravana. To perform the same, he created a Shiva linga from sand, which came to be known as Valuka Ishwar. It is a Sanskrit term meaning an idol made of sand. Thus, it lends a nearby famous temple - Walkeshwar temple, its name. However, Lord Ram felt tired and thirsty. He asked his brother, Lord Lakshman, to help him. To satisfy Lord Ram's thirst, Lord Lakshman shot an arrow into the ground to make way for the freshwater. That freshwater is known to be the holy Ganges River. Hence, the name Banganga, where Bann means - "an arrow" and Ganga stands for the - "Holy Ganges River"!
Fun fact, the pillar represents where Lord Lakshman’s arrow makes way for the water.
Although various filmmakers and creative artists visit Banganga, very few other people tend to know or explore this hidden gem.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #2 Colaba Causeway, Mumbai
If you are looking for a place of culture and art with a hue of vintage vibe in one place, Colaba Causeway is your escape. Popular among locals and tourists, this cultural square has an open shopping market for everyone. You will find unique products and more exceptional sellers who are no less than the true definition of enthusiasm. The sellers and their vast display of products on the footpath of the city is a common sight on Colaba Causeway.
Exploring Colaba Causeway's vibrant streets
Colaba Causeway illustrates the rich history. Additionally, how can one forget the iconic food and beverage spots?
Leopold Cafe is among the must-visits of the many chilling bars, restaurants, and cafes. You will find many resounding eating spots and bars to take a break from the fast and packed city.
Next, you may stroll on the Colaba Causeway road for street shopping to find unique stuff and practice your bargaining skills.
Fun fact, the artistic vibe of Colaba Causeway has made its way in the novel "Shantaram" by Gregory David Roberts.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #3 Chhota Kashmir
How about having a two-in-one trip while visiting Mumbai?
The calm and blissful vibe surrounds the place, even though the location of Chhota Kashmir is in one of the busiest areas of Mumbai. It has a lake along with a thick green cover. When you couldn't think of anything better, it offers you boating facilities to relish the calmness and greenery around the place.
Appreciating Chhota Kashmir in Mumbai
Chhota Kashmir is the perfect picnic spot for couples, families, or friends. It is open seven days a week with a time slot of 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM IST. The beauty comes with a small price - the affordable entry fee. Additionally, if you wish to capture the serenity, you might have to pay some additional bucks.
Also, the place is one of the safety nets for many filmmakers in previous times. Some of them found it unaffordable to travel to Kashmir to shoot a movie due to budget constraints and other reasons. Thus, Chhota Kashmir was their go-to place.
Fun fact, the movie starring Late actor Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore, Aradhana, is one of the movies filmed in Chhota Kashmir.
However, if you get a free day, you may want to spare some time to open that picnic basket with lovely food and laughter in the middle of this heaven.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #4 Sassoon Docks
How would you love a place not hoarded by people? A place where you can roam in the sea? Sassoon Docks, built in 1875, lets the public enjoy the sight of extensive fishing while on the dock. Now that is a new experience! People can also visit the fish market areas and get some fish.
Fun fact, Sassoon Docks are the most ancient and the first wet docks to be present in Mumbai.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #5 Sewri Mangrove Park
Sewri Mangrove Park is one of the exotic sites in Mumbai. Despite the mudflats and oil spills, it appears to exist. And, before it disappears, you may want to see it.
The unique flamingo birds are a common sight here, along with different species of birds and fish. Find your lost peace among nature here.
Fun fact, it is often considered one of the best sunrise and sunset places in Mumbai.
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #6 Gilbert Hill
At first look, Gilbert Hill in Andheri might seem like a huge piece of rock in the middle of the busy city. This piece of lava-looking rock is about 200ft., in the center of lush green areas. It is made of a monolith column of black basalt rock. Therefore, quite a fascinating spot for geologists as well as tourists.
Fun Fact, Gilbert Hill may date back to the Mesozoic Era!
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #7 Vasai Fort
With a history of people from various Nationalities preceding here, be it the Indians, British, or Portuguese, Vasai Fort is still a lesser-known place for tourists. It is also known as Bassein and was the main ship-building area with a port for the Portuguese.
Fun fact, The Vasai Fort is known for its rumors regarding some paranormal creatures and activities during the nighttime. Who's up for an adventure?
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #8 Mahakali Caves
Mumbai has one of the ancient Buddhist monasteries called the Mahakali Caves. These also go by the name of Kondivite Caves in Mumbai. It also carries mythological significance. You will find the seven figures of Buddha and numerous cravings that share the knowledge of Buddha and their mythologies, which makes the place an interesting point.
It is a quiet and peaceful spot with lots to explore and admire.
Fun fact, Mahakali Caves, or Kondivite Caves are around 2000 years old!
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #9 Kolad
Before we get into this beautiful place, one must know the drive from Mumbai to Kolad (~110 kilometers) is a magnificent sightseeing opportunity. It is famous for fun water sports activities in the Kundalika River. Although far from Mumbai, one can get a bus, or rail, or take the road to reach this hidden gem easily.
Fun fact, If in Kolad, one can not miss the river rafting experience, which is the most famous!
Unique places to visit in Mumbai #10 Harnai-Murud-Anjarle
When we talk about Mumbai, how can we miss a beach?
Approximately 200 kilometers from Mumbai lies Harnai-Murud-Anjarle, which all make it to the list of hidden gems.
Additionally, these are serene and beautiful places with lesser crowds.
While one can relax at Anjarle and enjoy a swim at Murud, one can head to Harnai for a fish auction in the evening.
Fun fact, Anjarle is known as the white-sand beach for being one of the cleanest beaches.
Conclusion
Lastly, there are many more unique places to visit in and around Mumbai. However, nothing beats a mix of peace, culture, and art. Further, a twist of Mythology (or Paranormal Activities?) makes it all the more remarkable.
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